Chicas tristes receives international acclaim and festival awards

The Mexican film ‘Chicas tristes’, directed by Fernanda Tovar, has garnered significant international recognition. The film, which marks Tovar’s directorial debut, follows two friends preparing for an international swimming competition while dealing with the aftermath of a sexual assault.

In addition to being featured in the official competition at the Morelia International Film Festival (FICM), the film has won several prestigious awards, including the Crystal Bear and the International Grand Jury Prize at the Berlinale 2026 Generation section. It also received honors in Cartagena and Lima, including awards for Best Latin American Direction, Best Screenplay, and Best Actress, shared by Darana Álvarez and Rocío Guzmán.

At the 24th Morelia International Film Festival, Tovar was awarded the Casa Wabi–Escine prize for best debut director, which includes an artistic residency in Oaxaca. Lead actress Darana Álvarez, making her first starring role, highlighted the collaborative process and the director's ability to guide actors through vulnerable subject matter.